. >> reporter: marijuana is still outlaud by the federal government, but now legal for medical purposes in 18 states, approved by 69% of district voters in a referendum 15 years ago but delayed by congressional concerns and the need for tight restrictions. the dc-based marijuana policy project-- >> is had to be tightly structured. now that it's going into effect, it provides an excellent example of how the systems can work. >> reporter: four dispensaries and six cultivation centers where the marijuana will be grown are to be licensed by the city. ward 7 council member yvette alexander is chairman of the council's health committee. >> it's not a step towards the legalization of marijuana. it's solely for medicinal purposes. >> reporter: bob barnard, fox 5 news. >> one thing not unanimously applauded during those public hearings before the dc council some, who live in the district expressed great concern about having marijuana sold legally in their neighborhoods. >>> sports is next when the news at 10:00 returns. coming up, college hoops takes center stage. the hoyas and terrapins say hel